The dense, spreading branches of this attractive evergreen are clothed in silvery-blue leaves and glossy black cones. Forming a low, splaying clump, this compact evergreen shrub makes attractive ground cover at the front of the border or larger rockery. Tough and easy to grow, it will tolerate a wide range of conditions, including (once established) dry chalky or sandy soils.

Garden care:Apply a generous layer of mulch around the base of the plant (avoiding the immediate crown) in late winter. Pruning is not usually necessary, however any shoots that ruin the symmetry of the plant can be removed in autumn.